Lafond Vineyard
Santa Rita Hills2010 Pinot Noir Martin Ray CloneNestled in the Santa Rita Hills of the western Santa Ynez Valley, Lafond Vineyard is ideally situated to produce Pinot Noir exhibiting the unique and exotic flavor profile one finds in only a few regions of the world.

Specific areas within our vineyard exhibit elevated concentration and complexity due to soil type and exposure to the elements. We have planted eight distinct clones of Pinot Noir, each with subtle differences in flavor and aroma.

After several years of working with the eight Pinot Noir clones planted in Lafond Vineyard, Bruce has become very familiar with the attributes of each particular clone and uses them accordingly in each of the Pinot Noirs he makes.

The Martin Ray Clone was planted in 1982. Considered an 'old school' clone planted by Martin Ray, one of the first proponents of Pinot Noir, in the 1950s near Saratoga. It has been the source of great Pinot Noirs for the last 60 years.

Winemaker's comments: This is our oldest block of Pinot Noir at 32 years. It is also our earliest ripening block producing small berries and a wine of rich concentrated flavors.